The death toll in the stampede at Kolkata’s Chorbagan Sarbojanin Durga Puja pandal has risen from 17 to 19, according to reports on Sunday. At least 25 people were injured in the incident on Saturday evening.
West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari said 17 victims died at the scene, while two others succumbed later. Of the injured, 24 were reported to be out of danger, while one remained in critical condition.
The stampede occurred amid heavy rain as visitors rushed towards the pandal for shelter, triggering a surge in the crowd. Authorities have launched an investigation into the incident, and 12 people, including organisers and security personnel, have been detained for questioning.
The state government has announced compensation of Rs 25 lakh and a government job for the family of each deceased person, along with Rs 5 lakh for each injured person.